Swan Valley EMS merger unknown

Bonneville County is still deciding whether to merge Swan Valley and Idaho Falls emergency medical services.

Idaho Falls Fire Department presented its proposal in front of the commissioners today, and many Swan Valley residents attended to voice their concerns as well.

Idaho Falls said its ultimate goal is to get another ambulance in Idaho Falls.

This could happen if it gets Swan Valley’s current budget, in addition to another $233,000 and a 3 percent increase to its existing budget.

If the commissioners vote to approve the Idaho Falls proposal, this means Swan Valley will only have one ambulance in their station.

Swan Valley is concerned about the level of care in the area.

The county is now deciding which proposal is more efficient.

“The need for another ambulance in the city of Idaho Falls [which] has been running short of ambulances on calls and not having enough to respond to is requiring an increase in funding. The cost of a small community system is putting an impact to where we may not be able to do both,” said Roger Christensen, Bonneville County commissioner, District 1.

The commissioners will deliberate and have a final decision this Monday at 11 a.m.

If the Idaho Falls proposal is selected and goes through, it could be in effect on Oct. 1st.